Developing markets with emerging middle classes are driving profits for some familiar American names. Many mature U.S. companies are taking advantage and rediscovering growth by going global. Here are three companies going global.

Familiar companies growing globally
Tupperware (NYSE: TUP) is a prime example. One stock guru says Tupperware "may be the best emerging markets play outside the U.S." The company's popular storage containers are a hit in emerging markets because of a growing middle class. Tupperware products are now sold in about 100 countries, with 56% of sales occurring in emerging markets and 88% of sales occurring outside the U.S.

Tupperware is off to a great start this year. The company reported record first-quarter sales and upped guidance for the rest of the year. Brazil, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Turkey, and Venezuela all had double-digit sales growth in the quarter. Despite its recent run, the stock trades at just over 12 times 2012's earnings.  

Kraft Foods (NYSE: KFT) is another familiar name growing globally. Kraft recently reported its India segment grew by more than 40% in Q1. China and Indonesia each grew by more than 20% for the quarter.

Interestingly, the popularity of Kraft's Oreo cookies is driving international sales growth. This year, the company expects the Oreo to be a $700 million business in developing markets, up from $175 million in 2006. If this trend continues, robust future growth can be expected as Kraft continues to perfect its craft in developing markets.

Yum! Brands (NYSE: YUM), parent of Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut, is another outstanding emerging markets play. The company delivered 7% EPS growth in the first quarter thanks to strong international sales, especially in China, where same-store sales climbed a blistering 13%. Yum! expects double-digit sales growth in 2011 as the company continues to expand in China and India.  

Yum! is also looking to add to its existing chain of overseas restaurants. The company recently made an offer for Little Sheep Group, a Chinese chain of hot pot restaurants. This acquisition would further boost the company's market share in China. 

The bottom line
Many established U.S. companies are embarking on a second growth stage via emerging markets. As a result, these companies offer a relatively low-risk investment opportunity with good growth potential to boot.

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